Peptide fragments for inducing synthesis of extracellular matrix proteins

Abstract

Short biologically active tetrapeptides are disclosed that are comprised of the sequences GxxG and PxxP where G (glycine) and P (proline) are maintained and x is a variable amino acid. The peptides can be used singly or in combination to stimulate production of extracellular matrix proteins in skin. A rapid, low-cost method of producing heterogenous formulations of tetrapeptides is disclosed.

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A tetrapeptide capable of inducing production of extracellular matrix proteins, wherein the amino acid sequence of the tetrapeptide consists of SEQ ID NO: 1 having an acid or amidated carboxy-terminus. 
     
     
       2. A tetrapeptide capable of inducing production of extracellular matrix proteins, wherein the amino acid sequence of the tetrapeptide consists of SEQ ID NO:14 having an amidated carboxy-terminus. 
     
     
       3. A composition comprising a tetrapeptide of  claim 1  and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. 
     
     
       4. A skincare composition comprising an emulsion of a tetrapeptide consisting of SEQ ID NO:1 or SEQ ID NO:14, and a dermatologically acceptable carrier. 
     
     
       5. The skincare composition of  claim 4 , wherein the dermatologically acceptable carrier is a lotion, cream, paste, or ointment. 
     
     
       6. The composition of  claim 4 , wherein the tetrapeptide is SEQ ID NO:1. 
     
     
       7. The composition of  claim 4 , wherein the tetrapeptide is SEQ ID NO:14. 
     
     
       8. The composition of  claim 4 , wherein the tetrapeptide is present in an effective concentration ranging from about 0.1 μg/ml to about 50 μg/mL. 
     
     
       9. The composition of  claim 4  which further comprises a retinoid.